Before we begin, let's set the stage. The purpose of this interview series is to inspire and encourage millennials to take the leap into entrepreneurship or give advice to those currently on the journey.

This series will highlight millennial entrepreneurs in a wide range of industries who are offering services, products and resources to their audiences.

Throughout the next couple of weeks you will have the chance to read the stories of millennial trailblazers who are designers, social ambassadors, photographers, and more. I hope you are inspired!

In this Mindshift Interview, I have Maura Chanz. of Glitter + Hustle. During this interview, we deep dived into all things business, influencing the future and more. This interview is perfect for anyone carving out their own lane. Maura is determined to make an impact. Check out her story...

Behind the person.

Tell us about yourself and what you do.

My name is Maura Chanz Washington, native of Chicago. With a background in entertainment and a love for technology, I consider myself a “puppeteer of culture.” I am an alumna of Spelman College and hold a BA in Comparative Women’s Studies with a concentration in digital media a minor in Writing. I am the CEO of creative agency, Glitter and Hustle and also serve as on-camera talent for Bossip

What is one quote you live by? Give an example of how you have applied this quote on your journey.

Turn your passion into reality and then a perfect salary.

I’ve applied this quote to every part of my life by working to do what I love. I finance my romance in several ways until the day my “romance” finances itself.

All things business.

How did Glitter + Hustle come to form? What was the idea that started it all?

The name Glitter + Hustle came to form largely in part to the Made In campaign by Carol’s Daughter. When thinking about what I was made with I settled on glitter and hustle. When it came time to select a business name, my mom thought it was so fitting and embodied my work and work ethic. The idea to start a creative agency came about after interning in BET’s branding and marketing department. It was there with my work with creative agencies that I decided I wanted to start my own, serving people of color, specifically women.

The idea to start a creative agency came about after interning... I decided I wanted to start my own, serving people of color, specifically women.

What does Glitter + Hustle do? What pain points are you looking to solve with your brand?

Glitter + Hustle is a creative agency. We create and provide avant-garde solutions through several mediums including but not limited to graphic design, video production, and brand development

What tools or systems is a necessity for your brand to run smoothly?

I have learned to put client agreements in place for smooth business. It outlines edits,timelins, payments, etc.

Client Agreements.

What are some accomplishments of Glitter + Hustle? And where do you see its future?

In only a few short months we have designed birthday announcements for Mannie Fresh, done video production for 100 Female Entrepreneurs, and designed apparel for a cycling studio. We’ve had the opportunity to do a lot of cool work, but those were some of my favorite projects. I see our clientele expanding and our team growing.

 I see our clientele expanding and our team growing.

Influencing the Future.

What advice can you give to other entrepreneurs?

Don’t compare your journey.

Invest in yourself.

I describe a Mindshift as a moment in time, where one realizes, there is more to life than what society has told. Can you describe your Mindshift moment?

It happened at a young age. I met Keke Palmer when I was 9 years old. We later became friends. It was in that moment that I realized I realllly could be whatever I wanted.

Lastly, think about what living life on your own terms means to you. Describe your ideal situation.

Freedom is living my life on my own terms. To me, that is the ability to do and go as I please without concern. That’s ideal. That is what I am working towards.